Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Occupational health: How to control presenteeism

Going to work when
feeling sick can be
costly for companies.

The right occupational health and safety measures can help manage presenteeism and productivity

Presenteeism – a term that describes an employee coming to work despite feeling ill or unwell – can affect not only the affected person’s productivity but it can have other impacts on the workplace as well.

A sick employee can spread the infection or disease at work, can disturb others and can bring down overall productivity.

Studies have shown that presenteeism can cost companies billions of dollars and even though the term has been talked about quite a bit, managers are often at a loss about how to handle it.

How can presenteeism be managed?

The term presenteeism applies to two different kinds of employee behaviors:

When employees come to work sick or tired and may be less effective because they are stressed, depressed, suffering from headaches or a chronic physical disorder

When employees work excessively long hours because they are over-committed to the job or have a fear of losing it

Organizations should be aware that physical conditions often have a psychological connection, studies show.

In many instances, employees with chronic conditions hesitate to tell their employers for fear of stigma, loss of employment or general distrust of managers.

Experts suggest developing a working culture that allows employees to experience optimum well-being.

Organizations must provide a culture that respects the rights and responsibilities of both employees and employers, they say, and certain strategies may help to improve communication, trust and cooperation.

1 comment:

Workplace health and safety procedures are necessary for the well-being of both employers and employees. Violence in the workplace is an ever-growing concern in today’s business community. Diseases and other health concerns also affect a worker's ability to effectively perform his job duties. Thanks.

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Please note:

The information presented in this blog is basic and general in nature. It should never replace the advice of a medical professional. Always consult your medical practitioner for advice on your particular health concern.